Autism Speaks to Young Professionals (AS2YP) Hosts Third Summer Event at New York Stock Exchange

On August 5th, 2011, the New York City chapter of Autism Speaks to Young Professionals (AS2YP) held its third summer event on the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange. Over 800 guests gathered at the NYSE to taste a few cocktails from sponsors Barbadillo, Firefly and Perrier, listen to music played by DJs Caleb Loftus and Nick Russo, and to show their support for Autism Speaks. The floor provided a stunning venue for guests to mingle among screens displaying the Autism Speaks puzzle piece, factoids about autism and photos of many of the young professionals present at the event with their loved ones on the spectrum. Event Co-Chairs Amanda Niederauer and Danny Ryan, joined by Autism Speaks President Mark Roithmayr, made remarks about their own personal experiences with autism, and thanked the crowd for being there to show their support. Guests were afforded the opportunity to take a photo with friends on the historic NYSE bell podium, and guests vied for a chance to win US Open tickets among other wonderful prizes in the evening’s raffle. To-date the AS2YP event series in New York City has raised over $272,000 for autism research and awareness, with over $66,000 coming in from last night’s event. Check out our event photos here, with more posted online at : http://guestofaguest.com/galleries/2011/8/autism-speaks-to-young-professionals-event/

Since many of us on the spectrum are entrepreneurs in waiting, I love this concept and applaud you for thinking outside the box. Last week when my daughter and I were both labeled autistic let’s say I had a reaction to it http://www.facebook.com/AutismTraining That’s why I adore seeing any glimpse from those willing to lean into our strengths.